Helping people build better, more sustainable homes. All NSBRC events are produced and delivered by knowledgeable industry experts, with years of experience in homebuilding projects. Sessions cover key topics such as finding land and appraising plots, heating solutions, navigating the complex planning system,& project managing a self build or renovation project.
The NSBRC has been a trusted source of advice and information since 2007 and in 2025 they have achieved Good Business Charter accreditation and delivered their best-attended event for seven years! Read on to find out how the NSBRC can support you during your project research. VIEW 2025 EVENTS CALENDAR
Building Systems Workshop
Saturday 15th March (10:00 – 16:00)
This workshop is aimed at people who are in the early stages of a project, who have yet to decide what building method they are using.
One of the most important decisions you will make during your project is which building system to use, as this is used to construct the superstructure of the house.
Several influencing factors will shape your decision-making, including your plot and priorities for your build. Using our own unique educational zones, and working with a selection of NSBRC exhibiting partners, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each system, including:
• Timber Frame • Masonry • Insulated Concrete Formwork • Passivhaus • Structural Insulated Panels • Log Homes
FREE | BOOK NOW
Last Chance to Book!
Drop-in Clinic: Insulation
Saturday 1st March (10:00 – 14:00)
We all understand, whether building a brand new home or upgrading an existing property, insulation can help deliver a comfortable house with low energy bills – but which products to choose!
Why not drop in to this free, dedicated, clinic and chat to the experts about all things insulation. Do your research, see a number of products up close and understand the different options.
This event is suitable for owners of both existing properties and people wanting to build a new home.
There will be five industry insulation experts plus an impartial NSBRC Helpdesk Expert – providing four hours of great advice without the hard sell.
FREE | BOOK TICKETS
Brand New! The NSBRC Guide to: VAT Claims
Saturday 8th March (09:00 – 13:00)
One of the many reasons to self build is that you can claim back your VAT. Under VAT Notice 431, any new dwellings are entitled to Zero VAT on materials and labour.
You can reclaim VAT on most building elements and materials – but there are some exceptions and various rules to understand and follow.
There are different things to understand depending on who is undertaking the work and this can be the cause of some confusion and unnecessary stress. That is why, working with a genuine, experienced expert, the NSBRC designed this brand new half-day course.
£95 per person (Held as an in-person course) | BOOK TODAY
The NSBRC Guide to: Getting your Project Started
Wednesday 5th & 12th March (18:00 – 21:00) | Virtual
This course will give you the foundations for a successful, worry-free project allowing you to focus on the key decisions and enjoy the excitement of creating your new home. The content has been designed for anyone taking on a self build, renovation or large scale refurb for the first time, and is delivered by an experienced presenter with a background in designing and building homes.
The session covers appointing a professional team, understanding planning permission, project management, legal issues, completing the design, managing finances, preparing to start on-site, & more.
£85 per device (Held as a virtual event via Zoom) | BOOK TICKETS
NSBRC Market Days
Second Friday of each month! Next date: Friday 14th March (10:00 – 15:00)
Many NSBRC exhibitors will be at their displays, to engage with you during our informal and relaxed ‘market days’.
These events provide the perfect opportunity to progress your project.
They’re different to the NSBRC’s usual workshop-style events, which have various seminars, so here you can simply browse exhibits and chat to companies in your own time with no sales-pressure.
Each date will also feature a free guided tour of our new build educational zone at 12:30pm to help enhance your visit to the Centre.
FREE | BOOK TODAY
Upcoming Training Courses for Self Builders & Home Renovators ️
Before you Build your Home… Build your Knowledge with the NSBRC!
The NSBRC Guide to:
Unsure which Course is right for you? Find out here!
Eco Workshop: Heat & Energy
Saturday 5th April (10:00 – 16:30)
This event covers everything from heat pumps and solar panels to ventilation and building fabric; what’s new, what works and what are the practical issues you need to consider for your project. This is your opportunity to get the facts straight from the experts.
Hear what’s happening with government incentives, and understand the green investment opportunities different technologies offer so you can balance up front costs with the long-term savings they may provide. FREE TICKETS
Passivhaus Workshop:
Friday 25th & Saturday 26th April (10:00 – 16:30)
The Passivhaus standard is designed to deliver comfort, quality and lower running costs, in any type of building. We spend most of our time indoors, so buildings play an important part in our health and wellbeing.
The most successful and cost-effective way of achieving Passivhaus is by incorporating the standard before your designs are complete. It’s also useful if the Passivhaus elements are included in your planning application.
Take advantage of this free workshop and ensure you have the right team behind you for your Passivhaus home. BOOK TODAY
The Festival of Sustainable Homes Returns this May!
Friday 16th & Saturday 17th May (09:00 – 17:00)
Sponsored by Good Energy.
The ‘Festival of Sustainable Homes’ returns for its second year!
This exciting, family-friendly show, will highlight how we can all live more sustainably in our homes and communities. Offering the latest advice on improving both the energy efficiency and comfort levels of properties – for both new builds & existing homes.
The two-day festival will avoid ‘greenwash’ and offer genuine inspiration for anyone interested in creating well-designed, healthy homes, through exhibits, seminars, live demonstrations and an unrivalled line up of experts on hand to share their knowledge. Our talks will be provide relevant, up-to-date, guidance for both newcomers to house-building and skilled housing professionals. FREE ADVANCE TICKETS
Don’t forget – the Centre is open 6 days a week from Tues – Sun for visits (Standard opening hours apply)